Jacob is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern and community therapist dedicated to serving boys and men of color through trauma-informed, person-centered care. He currently provides therapeutic and mentoring services at GRO Community, a Chicago-based mental health organization specializing in holistic support for individuals from low-income and underserved backgrounds.

With a passion for restorative justice and community healing, Jacob brings a unique blend of clinical training, mentorship, and public policy experience to his work. His areas of focus include trauma recovery, emotional wellness, stress management, and life transitions. Jacob’s therapeutic approach is deeply relational and culturally responsive, meeting clients where they are while helping them navigate complex emotional landscapes.

Before pursuing his clinical path, Jacob earned a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Conflict Resolution from North Central College, followed by a Master’s in Public Policy (MPP) from DePaul University. His early career included research and policy work at the Chaddick Institute and national restorative justice programming with Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC). 

Jacob is currently completing his M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at DePaul University and is on track to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with plans to pursue LCPC licensure.

He resides in Chicago’s Northwest communities with his fiancée and is a proud soon-to-be husband and father. His personal journey continues to inspire his commitment to equity, healing, and generational change.